Cause of DeSoto derailment still not known, as Highway 35 remains closed

The cause of a large train derailment last Thursday in Crawford County is still being investigated.

The county will keep part of Highway 35 near the accident scene closed until further notice, as the cleanup of the site continues.

About a dozen rail cars, including engines, went off the BNSF track at DeSoto on Thursday afternoon.

Four railroad employees were evaluated for injuries. Hazmat teams reportedly have removed all hazardous materials from the accident area. The train had been carrying some lithium batteries and paint, according to BNSF.

Traffic may be detoured at least through Wednesday in the area of the accident. Emergency officials say the old Highway 35 route, to the east of the current 35, is closed to through traffic, but people living along that road can still use it.

Crews have secured the two container cars that began floating away in the Mississippi River after the train derailed. BNSF Railway spokesperson Lena Kent said an absorbent boom was put in place to reduce the possibility of pollution.